A Holistic, Systematic and Rational Approach to Problem Solving & Decision Making

INTRODUCTION

Decision making and problem solving usually come hand in hand. Often, decisions need to be made because there are issues and problems to be resolved.

In a research done with 100 CEOs in the United States, solving operational problems was rated as number 2 in terms of importance in a list of characteristics of a leader. This demonstrates how crucial problem solving is.

Companies depend on middle management and frontline team members to fundamentally eliminate and fi x problems. Their ability to think through problems, objectively analyze and solve them will have a direct impact on company quality, service levels as well as profi tability.

This programme provides a holistic, systematic and rational approach to problem solving and decision making based a better understanding of the issue and clarity of facts.

OBJECTIVES
At the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:

•  Use Pareto Analysis to prioritize problems and impact of problems
•  Recognize the diff erence between problem and symptoms
•  Apply a holistic, systematic and rational approach to problem solving - (HSR Framework)
•  Derive solutions based on concrete information that fundamentally solve the problem

DESIGNED FOR

•  Supervisors and Managers
•  Executives and Staff Positions
•  Anyone interested in self-development

CONTENTS
Problems, Problems, Problems …..

•  Limited Resources but Unending Problems
•  Which Problems to Choose?
•  Use Pareto Analysis to Prioritize
•  Data Collection, Analysis, Charting and Decision Making

Holistic, Systematic and Rational Problem Solving and Decision Making

•  Understand the Situation from Multiple Perspectives
•  The Importance of Lateral Thinking
•  Integrate Lateral and Vertical Thinking
•  Diff erentiate between Problem and Symptom
•  Recognize and Framing the Problem Correctly
•  Correct Framing of Problem Leads to Appropriate Solution
•  Specify the Deviation
•  Identify the Cause and Eff ect
•  Generate Options
•  Compare Options and Assess Possible Adverse Consequences
•  Make the Right Decisions, Follow up and Follow through

Simulation Exercise with Case Studies

•  Skills Practices